The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) seventh Recruitment Training Completion Exercise and Passing Out Parade for Cohort 7, held on the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College Campus grounds on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Photo: RVIPF

The recruits of Cohort 7 of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force went through a rigorous and comprehensive training program for seven months after being sworn in on April 3, 2024. Photo: RVIPF

PC Kedesh Tala received several awards, including Best Recruit, the Baton of Honor, the President’s Award, and Highest Academic Achievement. Photo: RVIPF

The ceremony marked the culmination of seven months of intensive training for 18 recruits who were sworn in on April 3, 2024, the RVIPF said.

The recruits went through a rigorous and comprehensive training program that covered academic courses such as Psychology as well as Police duty subjects such as policing tactics, firearms training, swimming, and drills.

“This holistic approach has equipped them to handle the challenges of contemporary policing while serving their community with distinction,” the RVIPF said adding, “The addition of these recruits brings the RVIPF to its full complement, strengthening the organization’s ability to serve and protect the Virgin Islands.”

Awards

PC Kedesh Tala received several awards, including Best Recruit, the Baton of Honor, the President’s Award, and Highest Academic Achievement. PC Kenneth Simmons earned both the Best All-Around Recruit and Most Disciplined awards.

PC Joshua Ramprashad earned awards for being Best at Drills, Best at Physical Fitness, Best Shot, and for his Leadership. PC Lenisha James was recognized for excellence in academics and conduct, receiving awards for Best at Police Duty Subjects and Deportment.

Other awards presented during the ceremony included Most Improved Recruit and Best at Evidence, PC Omar Elliston; Perseverance Award, PC Tyrone Edwards; PWA Award, PC Shemika Leteen; Most Improved Swimmer, PC Andre Ollivierre; and Best Swimmer, PC Killven M. Samuel.

In attendance was Governor Daniel Pruce who congratulated the recruits on their achievement, emphasizing their vital role in upholding law and order in the Virgin Islands.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool applauded the recruits for their perseverance and dedication throughout their training, reminding them of their immense responsibility in maintaining peace and encouraged them to embody professionalism and integrity in every aspect of their duties.